Prevention
Why does a dry mouth harm my teeth?
Saliva is your mouth's quiet bodyguard — it rinses, neutralises acid and keeps things balanced. When it dries up, decay, gum disease and mouth sores all get a much easier ride.
Saliva is doing more than you think
Saliva is your mouth's quiet bodyguard. All day long it rinses away food, neutralises the acids that attack enamel, and keeps the whole environment in balance. So when it dries up, that protection drops away — and decay, gum disease and mouth sores all get a much easier ride.
That's why a dry mouth isn't just uncomfortable; it genuinely raises your risk of cavities. The teeth are left facing acid attacks with far less of the natural defence that would normally settle them.
What causes it and what helps
Dryness can come from certain medicines — antidepressants, antihistamines and water tablets are common culprits — as well as dehydration, breathing through your mouth, or a few health conditions. It often creeps up gradually, so it's worth mentioning even if it seems minor.
Sip water often through the day and chew sugar-free gum to get things flowing again. And do tell us about it, along with any medications you take — ongoing dryness is worth sorting out properly, and we can suggest ways to protect your teeth and keep you more comfortable.
Common questions
Can my medication be causing my dry mouth?
Very possibly — antidepressants, antihistamines and water tablets are frequent culprits. Don't stop any medicine on your own; instead, tell us and your doctor so we can help protect your teeth.
How can I relieve a dry mouth?
Sip water regularly through the day and chew sugar-free gum to get saliva flowing. Let us know if it persists — ongoing dryness raises your decay risk and is worth addressing properly.